Timed Handstand Challenge

Now that the 30 day, 30 minute-a-day squat challenge (link) is over, I’ve turned my interest into the handstand.

Don’t get me wrong… I will always continue and exercise my squatting, but inspiration has struck!

ARE YOU ON INSTAGRAM ?

HASHTAG #TIMEDHANDSTANDS

Not too long ago, Odelia Goldschmidt (of Ido Portal’s camp) achieved a Herculian accomplishment; a 10-minute and 4 second handstand (against a wall).  For those that don’t understand what it’s like to be inverted for over 30 seconds – it’s torture.

Why would anyone want to be tortured? Because we like it!

These Long Isometric Holds (LIH) have been used for a long time – particularly in the martial arts.  But for people interested in creating and adding new movement patterns to their repertoire, the handstand holds (in my opinion) are fundamental, exciting, and empowering.

A NEW CHALLENGE

With my first time being 1 minute and 15 seconds, I doubt heavily that I’ll accomplish Odelia’s mark anytime soon.  My goal is to reach the 3 minute mark.  Each week I’ll be posting my new record time on Instagram.  For anyone wishing to follow with me in this challenge, please use the hashtag: #timedhandstands

Good luck and be safe!*

MICHAEL JOYCE, LMT#6096

MYOSKELETAL ALIGNMENT THERAPIST

* Handstands are not for everyone! If attempting, make sure you know your body and potential risks associated.  You are 100% in charge of YOU.  It is very helpful and strongly recommended that you have a spotter… especially when pushing for those last few seconds!  Ultimately, push hard BUT STAY SAFE!

Michael Joyce, LMT6096 is a MyoSkeletal Alignment Specialist, and teaches Tai Chi, Self-Defense and Classical Fencing in Winston-Salem, NC.  He is also the founder of the martial blog The Combative Corner.

He is also hard at work on his second book – one on Women’s Self-Defense (based on his OutFoxxed Program)

JUICE RECIPE: “OUR MAGIC ELIXIR”

Now doesn’t this look good? Well… it’s the best (and one of the best for ya)!

We all know that many of use are not getting “The Right Stuff” into our diets, am I right?  We also know that our health is dependent on more than one factor alone.

The human body not only needs:

• MOVEMENT,
• STRESS REDUCTION METHODS,
• and REST/RECOVERY,
• but NUTRIENTS (and plenty of it!)

Juicing is a great way to super-charge your day, deliciously!   More on Juicing

The drink that we have pictured above is the new Joyce Family favorite, commonly referred to as the “Mean Green.”  And here is how you can make one of your very own!

“MEAN GREEN RECIPE”

• 1 CUCUMBER (peeled, if non-organic)
• 4 stalks of CELERY (organic if possible)
• 2 GRANNY SMITH APPLES (organic if possible)
• 2 handfuls of SPINACH
• 4 leaves of KALE
• 1-inch of GINGER ROOT
• 1/2-1 LEMON (peeled, if non-organic)

DOWNLOAD FREE YOURTHERAPY PDF “TOP 10 JUICES RECIPES“

This drink is not only great-tasting, but has been linked to helping many people battle headaches and migraines.  My wife Jenny just had her first battle with the internal kraken that is “the migraine” last week.  Apart from hydration and rest, we found this recipe and immediately fell in love with it.  We both agree that it’ll be a weekly addition (at the very least).

For other recipes… don’t forget to drop by my other juice articles or my page devoted strictly to recipes.

STAY CLASSY & HEALTHY!

MICHAEL JOYCE, LMT#6096

MYOSKELETAL ALIGNMENT SPECIALIST

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE… CHECK OUT MY LAST ONE!

Michael Joyce, LMT6096 is a MyoSkeletal Alignment Specialist, and teaches Tai Chi, Self-Defense and Classical Fencing in Winston-Salem, NC.  He is also the founder of the martial blog The Combative Corner.

He is also hard at work on his second book – one on Women’s Self-Defense (based on his OutFoxxed Program)

You’re Likely Pooping Wrong & Other Observations

I’m a coach of several things (Tai Chi, Fencing, Self-Defense) but I’ve never been one to coach someone in the art of the “deuce” – until now.  To those of you that clicked on this article in shock, please read through this scientific study.

It’s funny how ideas are brought about.  It seemed just yesterday that I began Ido Portal’s 30×30 Squat Challenge and, through implementing, started thinking more about the act of squatting – and one widely-neglected health practice.

If you don’t want to read a whole scientific study, let me just lay down a couple of facts for you:

• Physiologically we are designed to squat. Look at children! They instinctively squat to poop.
• The act of squatting releases the proper amount of hormones to evacuate waste.
• Conventional toilets do not allow the correct anorectal angle, adding constriction on the colon.
• Sitting to poo can cause problems such as: Constipation, Hemorrhoids, Colon Disease, Urinary Difficulties/Infections and Pelvic Floor Issues.

Squatting is not only good for colon health, it’s a natural position that strengthens the pelvic floor and according to Dr. Mercola improves balance and mobility, burns fat, strengthens muscles all over the body and aids in the removal of solid waste and toxins from the body.

Some Important Pictures from Squatty Potty (squattypotty.com)

Dr. Mercola’s Article: Squat or Sit

Another great article: Wellness Mama [Squatty Potty Review]

Squatty Potty Informational Video [view here]

CONSTRUCTING YOUR OWN SQUAT STOOL <–NO PUN INTENDED

Now, I’m glad they have an inexpensive, well-designed structure to squat on – however the only model that I really liked was the one made of bamboo (tao model).  Also, being the creative type, I walked around Lowe’s (while trying to remember some materials that I already own) and thought about how I could design one.  I even made a special video on how you make one of your very own.

All you need is about $15-20 and 2-4 hours (depending on your level of skill/speed).

Remember, the more time, effort and creativity you put in it, the “crappier” it will be! You must forgive me… this article lends itself to a number of easy puns.

*Please note that the pic to the above/left (not Top/Center) is a more proper angle for answering Nature’s call. Press your feet down firmly and re-discover this proper method for yourself.

I’m not asking you to bring this article up at the dinner table… (yikes!) but please tell you friends and loved ones about this information.  Everyone deserves to be made aware – for their health and future well-being.

VIDEO COMING SOON! 

The materials that I used include:

• Foam Sheets stacked to 9 inches & cut to [22Lx13Wx9H]- LOWES $7.99
• Foamboard (20×30) same dimensions as above – MICHAEL’S $2.99
• Colored Duck Tape – MICHAEL’S $4.49
• Carpet Strip/Sample/Mat – DOLLAR GENERAL $1.00

END PRODUCT

(click to enlarge)

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Happy Squatting & Poo-ing,

MICHAEL JOYCE, LMT6096

MYOSKELETAL ALIGNMENT THERAPIST

Michael Joyce, LMT6096 is a MyoSkeletal Alignment Specialist, and teaches Tai Chi, Self-Defense and Classical Fencing in Winston-Salem, NC.  He is also the founder of the martial blog The Combative Corner.

He is also hard at work on his second book – one on Women’s Self-Defense (based on his OutFoxxed Program)